Relaxed 11-Day Switzerland Road Trip Starting from Zurich to Lucerne

Your relaxed road trip through Switzerland starts when you reach the incredible city of Zurich, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Zurich and begin your adventure in Switzerland.

Make Lindenhof one of your first sightseeing stops in Zurich. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,519 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Zurich. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Zurich.

Start your culinary exploration in Zurich by securing a reservation at Widder Restaurant. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french, and contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, celebrated for its delectable sharing, and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover The Restaurant, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative, and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Zurich and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Widder Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Rio Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, CP First - Cocktailbar & Lounge also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Switzerland. Enjoy your first taste of Zurich as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Zurich, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Zurich, and meet locals along the way!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Botanical Garden. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,272 visitors.

Next, make your way to Zürichhorn. This river delta is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,563 reviews.

While in Zurich, we also recommend a visit to Chinagarten Zürich. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,600 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Zürich Opera House. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,349 travelers, this opera house is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Zurich.

Make your way to Zürich Zoo, perhaps the most famous zoo in Zurich. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,599 reviews.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Switzerland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Switzerland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Switzerland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Zurich.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cantinetta Antinori, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try El Lokal? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Aurora as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zurich.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Eldorado, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Gotthard Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, La Stanza provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Switzerland!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zurich. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Zurich!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Kunsthaus Zürich. This art museum gets 382,603 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,760 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Kronenhalle. This architectural structure has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,788 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Grossmünster. This church building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,428 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Fraumünster. This church building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,482 visitors.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 3 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Switzerland. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Zurich itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

Exploring the food culture in Zurich offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Savor the flavors at Alpenrose, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kafi Dihei beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Weisses Rössli. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zurich tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Zurich.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Babalu, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Nelson, another top-rated place in the area.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Zurich can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Switzerland!

Day 4 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Switzerland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Zurich. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the town of Lucerne, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 6 nights.

Kick off the day at Swiss National Museum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This organization is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,221 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Old Botanical Garden, Zurich. Old Botanical Garden, Zurich is a botanical garden with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,667 reviews.

Arboretum Zürich is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This arboretum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,823 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit FIFA Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,523 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Rieterpark, a famous park in Zurich. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,260 travelers.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Switzerland at Lucerne. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the town to recharge and rejuvenate.

When it’s time to eat, the town has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Lucerne, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Lucerne by booking a table at Lucide, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary, and classic menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Colonnade, renowned for its delectable modern french, and seasonal dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bolero. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lucerne this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Lucerne’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Switzerland.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar 58, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Penthouse. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Switzerland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Switzerland tomorrow with new energy.

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Lucerne, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.

Make Chapel Bridge your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 30,595 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Jesuit Church, Lucerne. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,696 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this church building every year.

Sammlung Rosengart Luzern is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 808 visitors.

When you’re finished at Sammlung Rosengart Luzern, the perfect next stop is Kunstmuseum Luzern. This art museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 439 reviews.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Switzerland.

When it’s time to eat, the town has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Lucerne, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ampersand, an iconic dining spot in Lucerne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern, a popular restaurant in Lucerne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern, a hidden gem nestled in Lucerne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Lucerne and unwind at some of the best bars in the town.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Switzerland!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Lucerne, where you'll stay for 4 nights, and see some of the town’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the town's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Lucerne, and meet locals along the way!

Make Zytturm one of your first sightseeing stops in Lucerne. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 816 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Museggmauer is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This fortification is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,258 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Schirmerturm. This observation tower has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 199 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Lion Monument Lucerne. A trip to this popular sculpture is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 20,757 previous visitors.

Switzerland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Switzerland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Lucerne has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bar bei Miguel, a top-rated dining destination in Lucerne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider la vie en rose, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Schiff. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lucerne this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Lucerne and unwind at the coolest bars in the town.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Lucerne!

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Lucerne. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the region of Lucerne!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Strandbad Lido Luzern. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,869 reviews.

Next up is Swiss Museum of Transport. This technology museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,843 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the region, Swiss Museum of Transport welcomes 562,605 visitors annually.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Verkehrshaus Planetarium. This point of interest has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 138 reviews.

Katholische Johanneskirche Luzern is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This church has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 22 reviews.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Switzerland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Lucerne. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Lucerne that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Switzerland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the region of Lucerne to find the best options for you!

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Grand Casino Luzern, a top-rated dining destination in Lucerne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Olivo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Heini Conditorei AG. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lucerne this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Lucerne and take the pulse of the town’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Switzerland!

Day 8 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Lucerne, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.

Take the opportunity to see Männliturm. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 309 visitors.

Nölliturm is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This tower has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 299 travelers.

Lucerne is also the home of Natur-Museum Luzern. Around 378 people have rated this natural history museum an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 4,153 reviews, a visit to this wooden bridge is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Lucerne is also your chance to admire Church of St. Leodegar. This must-visit church building enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,678 reviews.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Lucerne by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the town’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Switzerland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Lucerne, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Max Restaurant & Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Stadtkeller offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Grottino 1313. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lucerne.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Lucerne. The bars in Lucerne make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Switzerland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Switzerland tomorrow with new energy.

On day 9 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Lucerne and visit amazing attractions in Goldau destinations, just outside of the town. You still have 1 night left in Lucerne. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Goldau, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lucerne to Goldau may take around 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Goldau, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Perle Bernerhoehe, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 3.7 out of 5 stars in 3 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Nature and Animal Park Goldau. This zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,187 travelers.

Goldauer Bergsturz - Abbruchstelle is another must-visit attraction. This renowned sightseeing destination offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 5 out of 5 stars by 5 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Lucerne.

Exploring the food culture in Lucerne offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the town.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at VILLA Schweizerhof, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Suite small plates & cocktails is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Lapin. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lucerne tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Lucerne.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Switzerland!

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip across Switzerland promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the village of Schüpfheim and drive in the direction of the village of Sörenberg for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the village of Ettiswil, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Schüpfheim and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 40 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Schüpfheim beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned UNESCO Biosphäre Entlebuch. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,132 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Schüpfheim, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sörenberg. Your travel time is around 21 min.

Make Bergbahnen Sörenberg AG one of your first sightseeing stops in Sörenberg. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 810 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ettiswil. This drive usually takes around 51 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Wyher Castle. This much-appreciated château is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 461 reviews.

In the city of Zurich, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Switzerland.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Viadukt, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Pasta offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Best Western Hotel Spirgarten is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zurich.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Ebrietas Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Total Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Rimini Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Switzerland!

Day 11 of your relaxed road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Zurich.

Maximize your last day in Switzerland and go on a shopping spree in Zurich’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Switzerland.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Zurich is the remarkable MFO-Park. This urban park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,448 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 11 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Zurich or just grab something light to keep you going.

Dine in style at Metropol, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Oliver Twist boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Zurich and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 11-day relaxed road trip in Switzerland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.